Knox Box Emergency Access Program

A Knox Box is a secure key box installed on a home or commercial building. It allows Fire District 3 responders to access a key during an emergency when immediate entry is needed.

If someone inside cannot get to the door, or if there is smoke, fire, or a medical emergency, responders may need to enter right away. A Knox Box can help us do that without forcing doors, breaking windows, or causing unnecessary property damage.

Quick access can save valuable time. It can also help us reach you faster when seconds matter most.

Who should consider a Knox Box?

A Knox Box can be helpful for:

• Older adults living alone
• People with mobility limitations
• People with medical conditions
• Homes with locked gates or restricted access
• Vacation homes or seasonal residences
• Commercial buildings and businesses
• Anyone who wants faster emergency access and added peace of mind

How it helps

A Knox Box gives emergency responders a secure way to enter a property when the owner or occupant cannot open the door.

This can help:

• Speed up emergency access
• Reduce delays during fire or medical incidents
• Prevent unnecessary damage to doors or windows
• Improve access to gated or secured properties

Security and access

Knox Boxes are designed for emergency access only.

Only FD3 responders can open a Knox Box within our response area using the department’s secured Knox master key system. These boxes are not accessible to the general public or outside agencies.

What can go inside?

For most homes, the box usually holds:

• A house key
• A gate key or remote, if needed
• A code to get into a door or gate
• Other essential entry keys for emergency access

For commercial buildings, the box may hold:

• Main entry keys
• Interior master keys
• Gate keys or remotes
• Other access keys required for emergency entry

Before you order

Not every Knox product is available in every area. The products you can buy depend on the emergency agency that serves your address.

Before ordering, make sure you select the correct responding agency. On the Knox website, choose:

• Clallam Co Fire Dist #3

The Knox website will guide you based on the installation address.

How to order

1. Visit https://www.knoxbox.com/Ordering-Online
2. Enter the installation address
3. Select and confirm Clallam Co Fire Dist #3 as your responding agency
4. Click Shop Products
5. Choose the product that fits your property type
6. Complete checkout

Learn more at https://www.knoxbox.com/how-to-buy.

Recommended products

Residential

For residential homes, FD3 recommends:

• KnoxBox® 1501DH Standard Door Hanger
• KnoxBox® 1501 Surface Mount

These residential models are intended for homes and typically hold a single key.

Commercial

If you need a Knox Box for a commercial building, make sure the model you order meets applicable building and fire code requirements and has enough capacity for the keys needed for emergency access.

FD3 recommends:

• KnoxBox 3200, Model 3261

Question on ordering?

Call Knox Box customer service at: (800) 566-9269

Visit: https://www.knoxbox.com/support

After your Knox Box arrives

1. Install the box in the proper location
2. Call our administrative office at (360) 683-4242
3. Schedule a time for FD3 personnel to place the key inside and verify access

Please do not place keys in the box yourself before this step is completed.

Installation guidance

Door hanger boxes

Place the box on the main residence entry door.

Wall-mounted boxes

Install the box just to the left or right of the door frame in a visible, accessible location where responders can easily find it.

Commercial buildings

Install the box at the main fire department access point or in the location required by code or approved by the fire department.

Keep your Knox Box current

If you change your locks, replace a key, add a gate, or change access instructions, contact FD3 so the contents of your Knox Box can be updated.

Outdated keys can delay emergency access.

Important reminder

A Knox Box does not replace calling 911.

In any emergency, always call 911 first.

Contact us

To schedule key placement after installation, contact:

Clallam County Fire District #3
Administrative Office
Phone: (360) 683-4242

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can open my Knox Box?

Only FD3 emergency responders can open it using the department’s secured Knox master key system.

Is a Knox Box only for seniors?

No. A Knox Box can help anyone who may need emergency responders to enter quickly.

Can I install one at my business?

Yes. Commercial properties can use Knox Boxes, but the model should meet building and fire code requirements and hold the necessary keys.

Can I put the keys in the box myself?

No. After installation, call FD3 to schedule key placement and access verification.

What if I change my locks later?

Contact FD3 so the key inside the Knox Box can be updated.

Will a Knox Box prevent damage to my home or business?

It can help reduce the need to force entry during an emergency, which may prevent unnecessary damage.

Does this replace calling 911?

No. Always call 911 during an emergency.